Aviation Epidemiology Data Register: Age-Specific Medical and Nonmedical Attrition Rates Among Fort Rucker Civilian Aviators

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Aviation Epidemiology Data Register: Age-Specific Medical and Nonmedical Attrition Rates Among Fort Rucker Civilian Aviators

K. T. Mason / S. G. Shannon

An epidemiological analysis of the coronary angiography outcomes of Fort Rucker civilian aviators could not be completed without first conducting an analysis of attrition from aviation service due to medical and nonmedical causes. Longitudinal data on flying duty medical examinations and aeromedical boards conducted on Fort Rucker area civilian aviators was reviewed using the U.S. Army Aviation Epidemiology Data Register (AEDR). The AEDR records of 847 Fort Rucker civilian aviators were reviewed over nine calendar years from 1985 to 1993. By the end of 1992, 528 (62.3 percent) remained in aviation service, 251 (29.6 percent) were lost to nonmedical attrition, and 68 (8.1 percent) were lost to medical attrition. Of the 847, 196 (23.14 percent) had operational military affiliation (dual-status service as civilians and reserve component aviators), while 651 (76.86 percent) did not. Controlling for age, there was a higher risk for nonmedical and medical attrition among those without operational military affiliation X2 (Mantel-Haenszel), p<0.0001). Medical attrition was uncommon up to 50 years of age. Cardiovascular disease accounted for three-fourths of the cases of medical attrition. Overall, there was a threefold higher rate of medical attrition among those without operational military affiliation. Databases, Epidemiology, Aviator, Aircrew, Attrition.